By James Innocent
Thousands of mourners gathered at Freedom Square in Yei on Thursday for an ecumenical prayer service to honour the victims of the recent Luri plane crash, with religious and civic leaders urging South Sudanese to remain united, support bereaved families, and strengthen their faith during a time of national mourning.
Speaking during the service, the Bishop of the ECSS Diocese of Yei, Rt. Rev. Levi Marandulu Yopete, called on South Sudanese to remain hopeful despite the tragedy and to seek reconciliation with one another.
The bishop encouraged Christians to live lives guided by faith, reminding worshippers of the importance of being spiritually prepared.
He said earthly life is temporary and urged people to continue loving and supporting one another as neighbours. He also offered words of comfort to families who lost loved ones, expressing hope that faith would bring them strength during their grief.
An Islamic leader who addressed the gathering also emphasised unity, peace, and reconciliation. He encouraged citizens to remain steadfast despite the country’s economic hardships and other challenges, including the rising cost of living.
The imam urged young people to make positive contributions to society, including supporting community development and environmental conservation through activities such as tree planting, while maintaining strong faith and respect for one another.
Yei River County Commissioner Hon. Samuel Henry Malimbo commended the religious leaders, residents of Yei, and the Ecumenical Prayers Committee for organising the interfaith memorial service, describing it as an important gesture of solidarity with the bereaved families.
The commissioner also proposed that religious leaders consider establishing an annual memorial day to honour those who lost their lives in the Luri plane crash.
The prayer service concluded with messages of comfort, unity, and hope, as participants reflected on the fragility of life and expressed solidarity with the families and communities affected by the tragedy.